In today’s digital-first world, the expectation for seamless, personalized, and omnichannel commerce experiences is no longer confined to retail. Industries as diverse as agriculture, automotive, insurance, energy, and travel are undergoing a profound transformation, driven by evolving customer expectations and the rapid advancement of digital technologies. As organizations in these sectors embrace digital commerce, they are unlocking new opportunities for operational efficiency, customer engagement, and profitable growth.
The digital revolution, accelerated by the pandemic and shifting consumer behaviors, has fundamentally changed how people interact with brands and organizations. Recent research reveals that only 46% of consumers globally are satisfied with their digital commerce experiences, highlighting a significant gap—and a major opportunity—for non-retail industries to differentiate themselves by delivering superior digital journeys. The demand for frictionless, personalized, and data-driven commerce is now universal, creating unprecedented opportunities for innovation and growth across sectors.
Farmers and agribusinesses face mounting pressures from climate change, resource constraints, and supply chain volatility. Digital commerce is empowering these stakeholders to unlock new direct-to-consumer channels, improve supply chain resilience, and provide transparency around sourcing and sustainability. For example, leading agricultural platforms now enable customers to place orders, access food safety data, and review product specifications instantly—streamlining operations and building trust. These digital solutions also offer educational resources, connecting communities with information about production practices and nutrition.
The automotive sector is experiencing a groundbreaking shift as consumers increasingly prefer to self-select vehicle features and avoid traditional in-person sales. Digital commerce tools now unify the entire car-buying journey—from research to purchase—enabling personalized recommendations, dynamic financing options, and seamless online transactions for both new and aftermarket vehicles. This transformation extends to OEMs, aftermarket brands, and mobility retailers, all of whom are leveraging digital platforms to deliver convenient, tailored experiences that drive engagement and loyalty.
Rising consumer demand for highly personalized policies and the escalating complexity of risks have created a pivotal moment for the insurance industry. Digital commerce enables insurers to harness data from connected devices and ecosystems, creating usage-based and behavior-based models that enhance transparency and tailor coverage to individual needs. For example, connected vehicles can report driving habits directly to insurers, allowing for customized plans and rewards for responsible behavior. This shift not only increases policyholder control but also builds trust and long-term loyalty.
The energy sector is undergoing a digital transformation as utilities shift toward sustainable, decentralized solutions. Digital commerce platforms provide centralized data for demand forecasting, smart grid management, and customer engagement. Consumers can now manage home energy production, usage, and electric vehicle charging through intuitive digital interfaces, fostering a more sustainable and customer-centric ecosystem. Predictive analytics optimize energy distribution, while consumer-facing tools empower individuals to make informed decisions about their energy consumption.
Travelers today expect hyper-personalized, seamless digital experiences at every stage of their journey. Digital commerce platforms offer tailored recommendations, eco-conscious options, and contactless payments, meeting the demand for both convenience and sustainability. Brands that leverage these platforms to deliver nuanced, one-to-one marketing and feedback mechanisms are driving loyalty and lifetime value. From booking to check-in, digital commerce is redefining how travel and hospitality brands engage with their customers.
Across all these industries, several trends are fueling the rise of seamless digital commerce:
Despite rapid progress, friction remains a common pain point across industries. Issues such as confusing interfaces, slow performance, and lack of transparency can erode trust and drive customers away. To succeed, organizations must prioritize:
Publicis Sapient has partnered with organizations across non-retail sectors to deliver measurable results through digital commerce transformation. For example:
At Publicis Sapient, we help organizations across all sectors unlock the potential of digital commerce. Our end-to-end solutions—spanning strategy, design, engineering, data, and experience—enable clients to:
By moving beyond the mindset that “commerce is for retail,” organizations in every industry can harness digital commerce as a driver of profitable growth, operational efficiency, and customer-centric innovation.
The expectation for seamless digital experiences is now universal. As industries from agriculture to energy and travel embrace digital commerce, the leaders will be those who anticipate customer needs, remove friction, and deliver value at every touchpoint. Publicis Sapient stands ready to guide organizations through this transformation—helping them not just meet, but exceed, the evolving expectations of today’s digital-first world.
Ready to unlock new growth opportunities in your industry? Let’s shape the future of digital commerce together.